UK social media curfew for teens

The UK government announced plans to introduce an overnight social media curfew for teenagers aged 16 and 17, restricting access to platforms like Meta Platforms — Instagram and Meta Platforms between midnight and 6 am. The measure also includes default disabling of addictive features like infinite scrolling and autoplay videos for older teens, though users can opt out. This follows a previous ban on social media for under-16s announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The regulations are expected to be laid before parliament by end of 2026 and come into force in spring 2027. The move is based on research showing improved sleep and wellbeing from restrictions, but critics warn of easy bypass and potential unsafe internet use. Australia, Canada, UAE, and Indonesia have implemented similar bans.